Tag: revonix

Nerf Vortex Revonix 360 – Taking a Look (Review)

Imagine if you will, a time back in February.

I saw this:

Recorded this:

Tried again during this: (start at 0:33)

and FINALLY, recorded these:

So after a long journey that started at New York Toy Fair 2013 to July 2013 I finally saw a full production Nerf Vortex Revonix 360.

STATISTICS:

Nerf Vortex Revonix 360

  • Available Fall 2013
  • Approx. $39.99
  • Integrated drum
    • 30 Disc capacity
  • Range:  70’ish
  • Slam Fire
  • Includes:
    • Revonix 360 x 1
    • 30 XLR Vortex discs

 And there you go.  The Nerf Vortex Revonix 360.  So what of it?

Well, I like it.  I was a big fan of the Nerf Vortex Pyragon when it came out, mainly because of the level of firepower it packed.  Sure, the reliance on magazines is a sticking point for me in protracted Nerf games, but the slam fire was smooth, it looked good, and felt comfortable with a Nerf Super Soaker Lightning Storm stock.  And the Revonix?  Worth the cost.  A big blaster (almost reminiscent of a grenade launcher, honestly) good range, and comfy to use, especially with a stock.

BUT, it takes a little getting to know.  First thing, as Adult Fans of Nerf likes to say, the thing is a blaster you can reload on the run, like the Dart Tag blasters that have integrated mags (Quick 16, Speedload 6 come to mind).  And the reload takes some practice at first but if you can manage it, you’ve got something good here.  I always appreciate a loadout where I am boiled down to a player with a pouch full of ammo and a blaster by my side (anyone see what I did there?)  One must be familiar with the feel of their blaster to keep loading while running around, while also keeping your eyes on the field.  It’s good to know where the magwell is by feel, and turrets, and so on.  Those brief seconds you spend looking down could get you tagged.  I was able to work it out with the Dart Tag blasters, I’ll have to do the same here with a little more field time.  Initially, it feels easy to fumble discs or slow down to search for the loading points (especially since the mag drum freely spins around) but just keep at it if you want this to be a primary for you.

As one of the videos above shows, the Nerf Vortex Revonix 360 loads through a divot on the left or right side of the blaster, and pumping the handle primes the blaster to fire.  Holding the trigger down while pumping the handle activates Slam Fire.  Needless to say, that’s basic nerf knowledge, I think.  But eventually you too will go “click click bamf!” when you light up your opponents.  Maybe.  Ultimately, the slam fire on the Pyragon felt just a bit smoother than the slam fire mode on the Revonix but I think part of that is the new mechanism (this loads discs vertically and pushes discs into position, the Pyragon discs were already horizontal and didn’t need any additional adjustment from the drum mag or the firing mechanism.)  However, that is practically splitting hairs.  Both blasters send out a bunch of ammo REALLY FAST, and a cloud of discs can be a scary sight during a game.  Maybe even scarier than a cloud of darts.

Should the blaster get jammed, there’s a disc release and the jam door (both pictured)  I believe Mr. K at AFON pointed out this is the first/only Vortex blaster to have one(?):


 As for the range, I was hitting 50′ – 70′ with discs.  Not unexpected, considering that is the deal with Vortex line, hitting high distances.  The only caveat here is the accuracy (as with most things Nerf and maybe especially Vortex) may lack a bit.  The videos above show how hard it is to hit a reliably accurate point the farther you are from the target, and that’s even more noticeable with the frisbee styled vortex ammo.  Not to say I haven’t had success with this blaster, but it adds a little bit more of a challenge.  However, that is also a Vortex blaster’s strength to some degree, the unpredictability when trying to avoid a hit.  A duck or sidestep that would normally get you out of the way ends up sending you into the path of a disc.

That craziness is part of the reason I really like the Vortex line.

The paintjob is striking, for sure.  While the Vortex line has a new deco for 2013, all flame-styled in a way. 

And it works for me.  I honestly very rarely go “WHOA” on a blaster’s paintjob but this does look cool all the same.  The main body is very vibrant with the white and orange accents, and the grey just works with it in my opinion. 

So for $39.99, is it worth the purchase?  If you prefer having the full 40 shots from a Pyragon, and prefer to not reload one at a time (even on the run) then you might not get a lot out of this blaster.  I find the reloading mechanism unique enough that when I am on the field and hurriedly running around collecting my ammo to reload, (if the round is still going) it is MUCH faster to just load a turret than load a mag, and slam it in.  Granted, you can carry smaller mags if you’re using a Pyragon but then that’s still additional weight you have in your loadout as opposed to just a pouch/pocket full of discs.  So, player, know thyself.  The performance was on par with the Pyragon though not as smooth on slam fire, and reloading without additional magazines is nice.  This being Vortex discs you might have accuracy questions, but the ammo output just might compensate (Spray & Pray, my friends.)

If you like your Vortex blasters those are probably the best selling points about it.  Hopefully, I’ve been helpful in making a decision.  If you have questions, feel free to shoot them my way, and good game!

Nerf new blaster release list (the story so far, via Reddit)

 A PRETTY COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF THE NEW BLASTER RELEASES UP TO ZOMBIESTRIKE (click this link).

Compiled by a few redditors, including Bobololo from the HvZ Forums & Mr. K of AFON this is a pretty good list of what’s coming out and how much it will cost.  They’re planning to update as necessary, but if you’re going to start setting aside $$$ or making a list to give to pertinent family members… this gives you an idea of what the amount you’re looking at is.

The comprehensive total?

Elite & Zombiestrike                   $276.89 
Rebelle Only                           $129.92 
All Blasters & Accessories             $406.81
All Blasters                           $322.87 
(In USD) 
 
Go check the link at the beginning of the article for the full 
breakdown.  I will say, keep in mind this doesn't total in the new 
paintjob Vortex blasters or any other redone color schemes, 
just new blasters. Enjoy!

Nerf "Bash at the Beach!" – Nerf Centurion, Nerf Rapidstrike, Nerf Revonix 360, AND the Nerf Rebelle!

Well, it is now the Day After the annual  release/Media Big Bash for Nerf.  Starting in 2009 with the release of the Nerf Stampede, myself and a number of other U.S. bloggers are lucky enough to be invited to this event.

PIC HEAVY UPDATE AFTER THE BREAK:

Members of the Hasbro/Nerf design team and marketing chain of command are on hand for us to discuss/inquire about the products on display as well as some elements of the design process.  It is s usually pretty eye opening affair, and this year was pretty fantastic as well.

The focus this year was a “Bash at the Beach” themed event where some major releases such as the Nerf N- Strike Elite Mega Centurion, Nerf N- Strike Elite Rapidstrike, Nerf Vortex Revonix 360, the Nerf Rebelle Heartbreaker Bow, Nerf Rebelle Guardian Crossbow, and Nerf Cybershot Hoop were alll on hand to play and get a first-hand feel for them.  Also a prime moment to give some feedback before the blasters go into full production if necessary.

ALL THE NERF BLASTERS.

Super Soakers and the Nerf Firevision Disc Flyer

The Nerf Sweet Revenge blaster with the holster attached. Sadly, not up for demonstration.

The crown jewel of all the blasters for me over the evening was the Nerf Rapidstrike.  It definitely felt lighter and overall more maneuverable than the Nerf Stampede.  It fired faster and found it very easy to either do 3 round bursts or rock and roll at full auto.  Dual wielding did not feel cumbersome either, so I am definitely looking forward to getting these on the field.  It had the clear 18 round magazines and an adjustable stock.  There’s also a flip-up iron sight, multiple tac rails, and a good amount of sling points. 

The Nerf Rapidstrike – yes, it’s awesome.
Fall 2013, $39.99
THE ORANGE MAGS WERE ONLY THERE FOR DEMO PURPOSES.  THE RELEASE OF THE RAPIDSTRIKE WILL HAVE FULLY CLEAR MAGAZINES.

One interesting bit: there was some kind of thin rubber piece leading into the barrel and flywheels.  I do not believe I have seen this before, so I am intrigued what it purpose it serves. Guide?  Stabilizer?  I have to check my Stampede to be sure.

Nerf Vortex’s Revonix 360 was on-hand, and while I have to wait to see the full range (the target walls were maybe up to 40′ away) the blaster is just crying for a stock on it.  The on-the-fly reload is pretty awesome and smooth.  What you give up for 10 shots (the Vortex Pyragon drum has 40) you gain in mobility by not having to carry extra magazines with you.  The slam fire was a bit herky-jerky but there are still some tweaks to make between now and this Fall.  Still though, I loved the Pyragon so I’m wondering how the full production model of this will be (and I feel it will be FANTASTIC.)
 
I forget who photobombed me.
Nerf Vortex Revonix 360
Fall 2013, $39.99
The Nerf Rebelle blasters had the Guardian Crossbow and Heartbreaker bow next.  Functionally, they didn’t feel much different from New York Toy Fair, but the pink was a much deeper hue on these.  I will admit, the Guardian feels pretty comfortable, and my niece should get a kick out of them when they’re out.  Some interesting notes on the Rebelle:
 
– A LOT of research went into the development.  More than some people on the team had ever seen before.
– There’s a woman who worked on the blaster designs as well, so I wouldn’t say that it’s just men thinking what girls want.
– Rebelle is a long-term investment, this is no trial, it’s in for a penny, in for a pound with this line.
– One of the bits of commentary from tests groups was, they wanted pink, but only as an accent color or trim, not the majority of the blaster.
– The Sneak Attackers were a favorite of the initial test groups, due to compactness and relative power. 
– Their test groups (girls) found a better experience at trying to develop skill in using the bow (form, pulling the string back, aiming, etc.) more than the outright shooting targets aspect, which might be why the Heartbreaker Bow is the big item in this line.  
– Sadly, the Sweet Revenge (pistol) could not be demonstrated.  It was zip-tied down and still in box.  The focus was on the Guardian and Heartbreaker (the big ticket end of the release)
– Should start popping up around the 1st week of September, hopefully earlier.
 

In case you don’t like the pink of the Heartbreaker, have a different version!

A familiar face, the Rebelle spokesperson still hard at work!

The Nerf Mega Centurion was there as well, but my review of that is already HERE:

The most info I did get was about the incoming app(s):
There will be TWO separate ones, one for Nerf Rebelle and the other for the Nerf N-Strike Elite blasters.  I’ll have to make a follow up inquiry to see if there’s any interaction between the two apps.  Functionally, they will be similar.

The App Cradle

With the app, players can (at least for now):

  • Record & Share video
  • Add to social media
  • Send media to friends
  • Learn how to play CTF, last man standing, etc.
  • Rangefinder
  • HUD

They recognized all the duct tape magic going on out there mounting cameras, so they finally decided to provide a product (and no, the EPPS was not there.  Basic Nerf brought one, but that’s the only one there.)  Also, Droid fans… don’t worry.  They’re working on it but just want to get it right.

Word has it the N-Force and Nerf Dart Tag lines are currently not the focus of the team, so nothing new to report on that front right now (thanks, AFON)

We couldn’t really get a lot of answers about stuff NOT on the show floor (though AFON got some info on the Elite Spectre, go check!) and that makes sense to focus on the here and now.  If you’re in the woods, you’re worried about the bear 2′ away, not the bear that’s on the next mountain.  So, let’s embrace the 2013 bear for what it is, and I’ll be back to revisit these blasters once they hit shelves.

And let’s not forget about Click Click BAMF who has now made 2 shows, and Shining Foam in his rookie year (along with Basic Nerf) at this event.  Nice putting faces to the pages, always.  Class acts from these guys this year, and hopefully get to see them again at the next event! 

That’s about all I can think of for now… if I find I forgot anything I’ll update the post later.  Until then, I still have plenty of more reviews to do, so check in later this week!  Thanks all for traveling with me, keep on Nerfin’!

Questions?  Comments?  Let me know!

Nerf Fall 2013 Refresher (Rebelle, N-Strike Elite, Vortex, Blazin’ Bow)

Just a quick look back at some of the things left to expect for the Fall in the U.S. (at least as much as my press kit from February had) – I copy/pasted many of the descriptions below from my kit descriptions.

NERF N-STRIKE ELITE STOCKADE Blaster

(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $21.99/Available: Fall 2013)

With motorized blasting capability, the STOCKADE blaster utilizes features such as a rotating 10-dart barrel and a removable stock with storage for 10 extra darts. The N-STRIKE ELITE STOCKADE blaster comes complete with 10 N-STRIKE ELITE darts as well was a removable stock accessory with storage for ten additional darts (sold separately). Blaster requires three “AA” batteries, not included. Available exclusively at Wal-Mart nationwide.
NERF N-STRIKE BLAZIN’ BOW Toy

(HASBRO/Ages 6 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall 2013)

Who’s ready for more NERF action? Send NERF foam arrows soaring across the sky with the NERF N-STRIKE BLAZIN’ BOW toy. The BLAZIN’ BOW toy features an authentic pull-back bow design that you simply pull back, aim, and release to fire the NERF foam arrows. The BLAZIN’ BOW toy can hit targets from up to an impressive 40 feet away, and comes complete with integrated storage for two additional foam NERF arrows. Includes three NERF foam arrows. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.

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New deco for the Nerf Vortex line (should be out this Fall)

NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit
(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $19.99/Available: Fall 13)

The NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit is a girl’s best friend and includes the accessories she needs to take on any NERF REBELLE mission in style. The star of the NERF REBELLE SWEET REVENGE Kit is the bold five dart revolving blaster, which features a cool purple deco and bright magenta accents. Pull back on the lever to ready the blaster and press the trigger to send darts soaring through the air up to 75 feet. Add style savvy during non-stop, action-packed adventures with the included pair of NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR eyewear. Taking a break from the excitement? Players can stow their blaster and extra darts in the included hip holster, and take the NERF REBELLE action with them wherever they go. Includes blaster, five collectible darts, and belt clip holster. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR Eyewear

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $6.99/Available: Fall 13)

Players can accessorize their NERF REBELLE adventures with NERF REBELLE VISION GEAR eyewear, a pair of tough and trendy specs that bring both fashion and function to any adventure. A rubberized coating keeps NERF REBELLE girls comfortable, and hinged arms make the VISION GEAR eyewear easily packable for on-the-go action. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER Bow

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $19.99/Available: Fall 13)

The ultimate adventure accessory, the NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER bow features “true” bow action and powerful dart performance! Inspired by current pop culture trends, the HEARTBREAKER bow offers girls the poise and precision to take on any mission. To activate the bow, simply load a dart in the front and take aim. Then, pull back on the bow string handle and release to send darts soaring across the sky up to 75 feet, allowing for shot that shows off your skill with aim and attitude. Ready for action, the bow features an accessory rail which provides for five-dart storage for easy access to ammo and allows girls to customize their blaster with fun add-ons, like the NERF REBELLE App Cradle (sold separately). The NERF REBELLE HEARTBREAKER bow comes with five collectible darts, Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

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NERF REBELLE SNEAK ATTACKERS Two Pack

(HASBRO/Ages 8  up/Approx. Retail Price $12.99/Available: Fall 13)Equip your best friend with a blaster and team up to take on any secret mission together with this NERF REBELLE Two Pack! This pair of mini blasters packs high-performance power beneath its pink and purple exterior, with enough blasting power to fire darts up to 60 feet! Each super stealth blaster features its own unique deco, and is small enough to stash in a pocket or purse. Stylish spies will love that these blasters have room for double-dart storage, so back-up is never too far away. Includes four collectible darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH Mini Crossbow

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & /Approx. Retail Price $9.99/Available: Fall 13)

Stealth yet powerful, the NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH mini crossbow is a lightweight, sleek crossbow that lets girls get in the game with confidence and flair. Don’t let its sweet pink deco fool you – when the action gets tough, so does this crossbow!  With elite performance that sends darts soaring up to 75 feet away and ample room for backup ammo on the bow’s arms, it allows players to rapidly reload at a moment’s notice. The NERF REBELLE PINK CRUSH mini crossbow comes complete with four collectible darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

NERF REBELLE Accessory Bag

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $14.99/Available: Fall 13)
 Always make sure back-up ammo is within reach and reload on the go with the NERF REBELLE accessory bag, a stylish pack with ample room for storing accessories. The accessory bag features a pouch for holding darts, and includes 10 collectible darts. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.
NERF REBELLE Crossbow

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up /Approx. Retail Price $24.99/Available: Fall 13)

An impressive crossbow with fast-flying dart action and flexing bow arms, this NERF REBELLE Crossbow blends blaster action with crossbow precision. Slide the front handle to flex the bow arms back and ready the blaster for play. Pull the trigger and watch the bow arms propel forward as darts soar up to 75 feet toward the target. By holding the trigger and pumping, players can instantly transition between single shot and multi shot mode, unleashing a rapid stream of darts for exciting nonstop action! Includes six collectible NERF REBELLE darts. Available at most major retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.

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NERF REBELLE Dart Refill Packs

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $6.99/Available: Fall 13)

A girl has to be ready for action at a moment’s notice, and the NERF REBELLE Dart Refill Packs ensure there’s always plenty of back-up. Each refill pack includes 12 collectible foam darts some colorful and some with fun funky patterns. Dart Refill Packs are compatible with all NERF REBELLE bows and blasters (each sold separately). Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com

NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App

(HASBRO/Ages 8 & up/Approx. Retail Price $14.99/Available: Fall 13)

Girls can grab a group of friends and experience the ultimate social adventure together in an App-enhanced world of the NERF REBELLE brand! To start the fun, fans can download the free NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App to their iPhone or iPod Touch, and insert the device into the stylish NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL App cradle accessory. Attach the accessory to a compatible NERF REBELLE blaster (sold separately) and then it’s time to bring friends together for some serious fun! Within the app, players can create a personalized avatar and form squads with friends for multi-player gaming. NERF REBELLE players can capture photos and videos while in play, and even share the fun with friends. Players can also go on quests, compete to win in-game benefits, and even earn accessories for their avatar within the app. The NERF REBELLE MISSION CENTRAL app will be available for download at the App Store and compatible with the iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, and iPod Touch (4th Generation). Compatible with select NERF REBELLE blasters. Available at most major retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.
 NERF VORTEX REVONIX360 Blaster

(HASBRO/Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $39.99/Available: Fall 2013)

Amp up freestyle foam blasting performance with the NERF VORTEX REVONIX360 blaster which achieves the farthest VORTEX distance yet, up to 70 feet! This disc blaster features new, awesome deco and has a revolving drum that rotates each time you fire the blaster.  Plus, the SLAM FIRE Handle gives you total control over your rate of fire – blast a single shot or hold the trigger down and slide the handle repeatedly to unleash an unstoppable stream of discs.  Includes 30 multi-color XLR discs. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com.

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WHOA: Nerf Revonix – found in the wild?

While scanning through instagram… found this new shot of a Nerf Revonix 360 (so did Basic Nerf).  Not a website and not from Toy Fair, but user “daltontheamazing” might have a nerf Vortex Revonix 360 of his own, judging by the picture.
I thought the Revonix was not scheduled ’til the Fall, but release dates do get fuzzy!  Looks like his location is set in Rhode Island too… so the plot thickens.  (Anyone remember the Pyragon leak last year?)
Anyway, of note is the discs are white (and what looks like a red one?) As opposed to the red/white ones I saw at Toy Fair and the green ones in some of those store photos.
Interesting… very interesting.
EDIT:  Join the discussion on reddit – http://redd.it/1edcoe

Whew! New York Toy Fair 2013 – Nerf Debrief (In case you didn’t want to click through my WHOLE album)

Nerf Revonix 360

Where you load the discs

Iron Man spring launcher (reminiscent of a small pistol)

Iron Man disc shooter (in the spirit of the foam disc captain America Shield)

Heartbreaker Bow (click for info)

Nerf Rebelle Alpha Girl Mission Kit (click for info)

Nerf Rebelle Sneak Attacker 2-pack (Click for info)

Nerf Rebelle PINK CRUSH mini crossbow (Click for info)

Nerf Rebelle Crossbow (Click for info)

Nerf Blazin’ Blitz Bow (Click for Info)

Nerf Vortex Firefly tech Glow in the Dark Mission Kit

Firevision Flyer

Angry Birds blaster (Koosh)

Angry Birds blaster